Making Designer Jewelry with Freshwater Pearls

Create Pearl Jewelry with Freshwater Pearls for Luxurious Designs to Make and Wear

From small jewelry stores, to large retailers and now to the studios of jewelry artists. Freshwater pearls are all over the place.

As designers continually look for that extra something to make their creations into masterpieces, Freshwater pearls are becoming a favorite among many.

It's because of their affordability, and vast array of colors, shapes and sizes, that  Freshwater pearls are the gem of choice these days.

A myriad of pearl shapes, like the Coin shape, Potato, Baroque, Rice, Semi-Round, and Biwa to name a few, has allowed designers to add a flare of geometry to their pieces. The results are highly unique pieces much more affordable than most pieces consisting of all beads.

incorporating pearls into her work two years ago. "With my creative process always going, I am constantly thinking of distinctive new looks for my clients. When I started with pearls I was given so many more options,"

Simone says. "Now I can really mix things up by using colorful coin strands on some pieces and then say, single pearls on earrings and rings."

The jewelry industry is taking notice as more and more people are discovering their value. In the state of Illinois, the Pearl Society in Chicago was created by Eve Alfille of Eve J. Alfille Gallery & Studio in Evanston as a way to educate jewelry artists and retailers about the world of pearls. 

There are so many reasons to choose freshwater pearls both for your personal jewelry collection and your artistic design needs. They provide the perfect accompaniment to any ensemble and make a statement about the person who wears them; whether a proclamation of wealth and power or a portrayal of youth and innocence.

Affordability

The affordable price of freshwater pearls (especially when purchased directly from companies who own their own pearl farms) is a surprise to many people. It is amazing that almost anyone can own such beautiful examples of Nature’s ‘jewels of the sea’. You can buy long strands of small pearls or purchase giant beauties singly or in pairs for earrings or pendants.

Variety

Freshwater pearls are available in so many different shapes and sizes it is difficult to list them all! The traditional spherical and teardrop pearls are just the beginning - flat round coins, chunky peanut, potato, baroque and keshi pearls and unique cross or heart shapes make it easy to design specialty pieces that please the eye and the budget.

Colors

Hundreds of tints and shades abound. Freshwater pearls come in a variety of natural hues, and can be easily custom colored to fit almost any need. This makes them a favorite of designers looking to match a special outfit - pearls can be a great accent accessory when paired with matching shoes or a scarf to contrast with a plainer suit.

Gifts

Pearls make terrific presents for girls and women alike. You can start with a short pearl strand for a little girl, and add freshwater pearls to her collection as she grows - earrings, bracelets and longer pearl necklaces are always in demand. They work great for all occasions; Mothers and mothers in law, favorite aunts and godmothers alike will be thrilled to be remembered.

Weddings

Pearls are much in demand for weddings, and freshwater pearls are inexpensive enough to bedeck the entire bridal party. Matching chokers for the bridesmaids and bracelets for the flower girls can make the event memorable for everyone.

Versatility

Don’t forget the decorative outlets for freshwater pearls! You can use pearls in many different settings, from jewelry and hair ornaments to decorating lampshades, wall hangings and purses as well as many other articles for your home and wardrobe. Many artists prefer working with pearls over any other medium because of the limitless ways to express their creativity! Consider making freshwater pearls the focus of your next jewelry or craft project.